From 28 November to 2 December 2022, the first session of the Intergovernmental negotiating committee (INC) on Plastic Pollution was held in Punta del Este, Uruguay. Negotiations were held to make initial progress on the development of a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. As mandated by the United Nations Environmental Assembly during its fifth resumed session (Resolution 5/14), the instrument is to be based on a comprehensive approach to the full life cycle of plastic and to consider sustainability.

QUNO Geneva was able to virtually observe and participate in the negotiation processes throughout the week. Sustainable & Just Economic Systems Program Officer, Andrés Naranjo, delivered an intervention on the 30th when delegates met to discuss the creation of a new convention to reduce plastic pollution. The statement, which can be read here, was delivered on behalf of Quakers under the Friends of the World Committee for Consultation. It focused on principles that are essential to future multi-stakeholder engagement on plastics, including equitable access, fair funding, non-duplication of existing plastics spaces, and effective resource allocation.